Overview
- An HMRI systematic review reported that most trials of GLP-1 and related therapies did not document what participants ate, obscuring nutrition-related outcomes.
- Nutrition experts, including Clare Collins, warn that appetite suppression can lower protein, fiber, vitamin and mineral intake, raising indirect deficiency risks such as vitamin C shortfall.
- Researchers emphasize there is no evidence the drugs directly cause scurvy, though susceptible individuals could develop it if vitamin C intake falls too low.
- Guidance includes involving accredited dietitians, using validated dietary assessment in trials and care, and considering targeted multivitamin or mineral supplements for some patients.
- Early deficiency signs can be overlooked because fatigue, nausea and poor appetite resemble drug side effects, and Cleveland Clinic notes scurvy’s severe manifestations including anemia and bleeding gums.